Oct. 07, 2015: Gina Rivera Tip of the Week

I am often asked the question, “What makes your company different from its competitors?” Well, to be honest, I really try not to pay too much attention to them. I think for the most part, this is a waste of my time as well as my energy which is much better focused on moving my company’s affairs forward.

While sometimes it may be in…teresting to hear what the competition is doing, I am usually too busy with my own corporate and personal obligations to concern myself with it. For me, expanding my company based on my personal vision and building the strong corporate culture that we strive to maintain is a far higher priority.

My company’s business model is based on years of hands-on experience learning the industry that no one else can provide to me. For this reason, instead of concerning myself with the actions of our competitors, I prefer to base the choices that I make on business knowledge that I gained during my early years.

I have always kept the Salon Professional first and their needs are considered in virtually every decision we make at the corporate level of my company. I impress on my executive team, everything we do must be about supporting their success. I believe only then are we successful as a company.

Most of you know, I have stayed very close to the industry. For the following reasons I have made the personal decision to work behind the chair a couple of times per week; First, I love what I do. Second, it helps me to remain current with my skills and industry trends. And, most importantly, it keeps me in the loop. Meaning, I am constantly aware of the Salon Professionals that we serve and their needs.

So, is it ok to do research on other competitors? Sure, however, don’t let it consume you or guide your business practices. It will only serve to drain your energy and distract your mind from focusing on important aspects of your own business. Instead, know who you are and what is important to you. Be aware of the environment that you want to provide and focus on providing it. Understand how you want a client to feel when they leave your place of business and make that happen. If you do all of these things, I promise you, it won’t matter what your competitor is doing because your success will move you to the next level!